Devario regina

Devario regina, the Queen Danio, is one of the most attractively marked devarios, native to rivers of India, Myanmar, and Thailand. The body displays bold alternating blue-silver and gold horizontal bands that shimmer prominently as the school moves, earning it its regal common name. It reaches approximately 10 cm and requires a spacious tank with substantial horizontal swimming space. In the wild it inhabits moderately flowing, clear rivers and larger streams. In the aquarium it is best maintained in groups of five or more, with robust filtration and a very secure lid, as it is an enthusiastic jumper. It is peaceful with all fish too large to be considered food items. Diet is uncomplicated: it accepts flake, pellets, and frozen foods. A classic and rewarding species for the large planted community setup.

Water: Temperature 18–26 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15; moderate to good flow; well-filtered. Tank: 100 L minimum; long tank with open swimming area; very secure lid; planted margins. Feeding: Floating flake, pellet, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and brine shrimp; feeds readily. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; large conditioning tank needed; condition on live foods. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium to large community fish; may intimidate very small nano species.